Are public open spaces in the City of Sydney neurodiverse-friendly?

This pilot research project aims to understand the experience of neurodivergent users in City of Sydney public open spaces.

Neurodivergent users in central urban areas are more likely to suffer from environmental sensitivities such as noise, heat, glare and crowd, and this equity issue increases their chance of withdrawing from public open spaces. 

Funded by City of Sydney, this study is the first participatory research project that aims to explore the accessibility of public open spaces within an Australian city from the perspective of neurodivergent users. 

We will engage participants in semi-structured walking tour interviews, guided by them, around the City of Sydney Local Government Area, and will ask about their experience of formal and informal public spaces, social spaces, transition spaces and circulation areas. 

The project will cover various design aspects, including street furniture, lighting, footpaths, noise and crowd management, wayfinding and signage, space connectivity and maintenance. 

The findings will be used to update future policies and guidelines to improve neurodiversity.